The First Case of Human Herpesvirus 7-Related Epilepsy in the Republic of Belarus

Abstract

Background: Human herpesvirus (HHV)-7 is usually associated with febrile seizures. Later onset and higher frequency of seizures are characteristic of pediatric HHV-7, compared with HHV-6 infection. The HHV-7-related severe neurological disorders are predominantly observed in immunocompromised individuals. Reports of healthy individuals with HHV-7 infection and diverse neurological disorders are limited. Patient Description: We present a case of HHV-7-related epilepsy in an immunocompetent 11-year old boy and extensive infectious and autoimmune testing positive only for HHV-7 in the cerebrospinal fluid. The patient made a good recovery after treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and methylprednisolone. Discussion: This is the first reported case of epilepsy associated with HHV-7 in a previously healthy individual. It also demonstrates that intravenous immunoglobulin and steroids may be used in the course of this disorder and may be beneficial for recovery.